What is a five-pawed dog (with pictures)

A five-pawed dog is a dog with five paws. In traditional Chinese culture, the five-pawed dog is regarded as a symbol of good luck, representing power, honor and auspiciousness. This is because in ancient times, the five-pawed dog was the exclusive symbol of the emperor, and only the emperor could use the five-pawed dog motifs and tattoos.

The image of the five-clawed dog is usually the body of a dog with a dragon shaped head and five claws. This image blends the characteristics of a dog and a dragon, symbolizing the sanctity and majesty of imperial power.

The five-clawed dog appears frequently in ancient Chinese architecture, painting, sculpture and other works of art. It was often used to decorate important places such as imperial palaces, temples, and official buildings to demonstrate the majesty and honor of imperial power.